Former France and Manchester United defender Raphaël Varane has been officially appointed as a board member of Italian club Como 1907. The decision was confirmed after the 30-year-old’s retirement from professional football, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career off the pitch.
Varane, who enjoyed a glittering playing career with Real Madrid, Manchester United, and the French national team, is set to bring his wealth of experience to the newly promoted Serie A club’s management. His appointment reflects Como’s ambition to grow both on and off the field, as the club seeks to establish itself as a force in Italian football.
“I’m honored to join the board at Como and contribute to the club’s exciting project,” Varane said in a statement. “This is a new challenge for me, and I look forward to working closely with the team to help build something special here.”
Como 1907, known for its picturesque lakeside setting, has been actively restructuring under new ownership, with plans to develop both its sporting infrastructure and global brand. Varane’s involvement aligns with the club’s focus on attracting experienced figures to support their long-term vision.
During his playing career, Varane won multiple Champions League titles and the World Cup, earning a reputation as one of the finest defenders of his generation. Following his retirement, his shift into football management signals a smooth transition from the pitch to the boardroom, where he hopes to apply his leadership skills in a new capacity.
Como fans will be eager to see how Varane’s influence can impact the club’s fortunes, both in their Serie A campaign and in building a sustainable future. His appointment highlights a growing trend of former players moving into executive roles, adding their expertise to football’s business side.